The Lions have gone from having a heap of attention for losing against Caramut with a score of 1.20 (26) to kicking a record-breaking 79.41 (515) against the Ararat Eagles on Saturday.

The club didn't go out to ridicule the Eagles, however as a team with finals aspirations - its first such opportunity in the league - the Lions were conscious not to undermine their aspirations.

The team conducted themselves in a respectful manner towards their opposition, which included the promotion of several young players and a reduction of on-field numbers to match the Eagles' outfit.

Lions president Tracey McCartney said she didn't put aside her time and work countless hours a week only to act without integrity.

"For suggestions from within the league ranks that imply subtle pressure/encouragement to not give a full effort on field borders into the realm of tanking and calls into question the integrity of individual clubs and the league as a whole," she said.

"I put it out to the league and all teams to lobby the AFL to increase investment into grass roots football administration to help struggling country teams. Whilst this does occur in some circumstances, it often comes with expenses that compound inner club resources."

McCartney said junior participation was at an all-time low in country football and called on the AFL to help with solutions that assist clubs to help develop junior participation in line with current salary cap/point system regulations.

"I also encourage Ararat and the wider community to get behind the Ararat Eagles, as they need our support to regroup and get the club on the rebound for season 2020.

"Clubs just don't need players, they need committee members, umpires, timekeepers, water boys, boundary and canteen workers.

"For a struggling club to have a few people to put their hands up to help them out will be a step in the right direction.

"After all, this is not about club rivalries, it's about country football and netball."